Mainstreaming genetics and genomics: a systematic review of the barriers and facilitators for nurses and physicians in secondary and tertiary care

Purpose Genetic and genomic health information increasingly informs routine clinical care and treatment. This systematic review aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators to integrating genetics and genomics into nurses’ and physicians’ usual practice (mainstreaming). Methods A search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO generated 7873 articles, of which 48 were included. Using narrative synthesis, barriers and facilitators were mapped to the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Results Barriers were limitations to genetics knowledge and skill, low confidence initiating genetics discussions, lack of resources and guidelines, and concerns about discrimination and psychological harm. Facilitators were positive attitudes toward genetics, willingness to participate in discussions upon patient initiation, and intention to engage in genetics education. Conclusion Nurses and physicians are largely underprepared to integrate genetic and genomic health information into routine clinical care. Ethical, legal, and psychological concerns surrounding genetic information can lead to avoidance of genetics discussions. The knowledge–practice gap could limit patients’ and families’ access to vital genetic information. Building the capacity of the current and next generation of nurses and physicians to integrate genetics and genomics into usual clinical practice is essential if opportunities afforded by precision medicine are to be fully realized.